Barcelona has completed a key deal for its immediate future; it's a strategic contract renewal that brings peace of mind to Flick and strengthens the project led by Laporta. The contract extension has been agreed upon, and only the official announcement remains. Everything indicates that it will arrive in the coming days, Jules Kounde will remain tied to the blaugrana club until 2030.
The French center-back, a key piece in Barça's defensive line, has approved the terms of his new contract. In a period of rebuilding and with many uncertainties in the squad, this agreement represents a show of authority. The renewal not only ensures the continuity of a top-level player.
It's also seen as a show of trust in the sporting project Flick wants to implement. The German coach considers Kounde essential both for his versatility and his tactical commitment. Laporta has played a central role in these talks, the blaugrana president has personally gotten involved to close the deal as soon as possible.
Hansi Flick's priority is Kounde's continuity
Fully aware of the importance of the French defender, he didn't want to wait for the market to develop.Kounde was a priority, and the club has replied, while the player's camp has also shown alignment with the board.
There were no excessive demands or threats to leave, just a calm negotiation that ends with a protected contract and a high release clause. This way, Barça protects itself against future market temptations. This renewal also sends a message to the locker room: professionalism, consistency, and the willingness to take on new roles are rewarded.
Fort considers leaving to gain experience
Jules Kounde has played as a full-back when asked, although his desire has always been to perform as a center-back. Flick has valued that attitude since his arrival; another important factor in this deal is the stability it brings to the defensive core. Meanwhile, Héctor Fort is considering a loan move to continue developing.
With Pau Cubarsi and Kounde, Barça secures a center-back pairing with both present and future. Cubarsi's progression is clear, but he needs a more mature profile alongside him. That's where Kounde comes in. Additionally, within the club, there's insistence that Fort is also part of the medium-term defensive plan.
However, the Frenchman's experience is irreplaceable. His continuity allows the coaching staff to work without urgency in that area. The signing will become official in a matter of days; the date hasn't been confirmed yet, but the logistical details are already being finalized. The Frenchman thus becomes one of the pillars of Flick's new Barça, and Laporta takes another step in his mission to restore sporting stability to Camp Nou.